The mechanical action in the second part of the pull known as the double
knee bend or scoop is the result of proper technique and is not a direct conscious act in
itself. This action should not be taught. It occurs quite naturally. The athlete has
enough problems mastering the correct positions without confusing him with the complexity
of the double knee bend.

A brief definition of good technique is correct position at the following
key points: start, knee height, and full extension. As the bar passes the knees to begin
the second pull, the hamstrings begin to contract strongly and violently causing not only
an extension of the hip but also flexion of the knees. This is sometimes referred to as
the double knee bend.

Having coached athletes and Olympic weightlifters for thirty years at all
levels, ranging from novice to national champions and Olympians, I can personally vouch
that the majority of coaches who endeavor to teach the double knee bend fail. To teach
this action will result in premature weight transference to the balls of the feet and loss
of upward momentum in the phase between the first and second pull. These key points should
be kept in mind while executing the pull: phase 1 - leg extension (In the initial pull
from the floor, the barbell moves back toward the lifter. This allows a more stable,
balanced position from which to exert force), phase 2 - hip extension, phase 3 - jump
shrug. Start with feet hip width apart, hips above knees, back flat, shoulders in advance
of the bar, arms straight, elbows out. Correct position as bar crosses the knees is
extremely important. Leg extension complete, bar over center of feet, back angle constant,
arms straight, elbows out, shoulders over bar. At the beginning of the "explosion
phase", the feet are flat, hips extended, arms straight, elbows out. Proper body
position at the finish of the pull reflects good technique. Legs and hips extended jump
and shrug coordinated. All motion directed up. If the athlete performs other aspects of
the movement correctly, then the double knee bend will occur naturally.